MAJOR GENERAL DEEPAL PUSSELLA PAYS THE COURTESY CALL ON THE CDS PRIOR TO RETIREMENT

Major General Deepal Pussella RWP RSP after possessing above 36 years of distinguished service in the Sri Lanka Army paid a farewell call on the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Shavendra Silva WWV RWP RSP VSV USP ndc psc MPhil at the Office of the Chief of Defence Staff (OCDS) yesterday (05 October 2023).

Major General Deepal Pussella and his family were warmly welcomed to the office by General Shavendra Silva and the outgoing senior officer paid his gratitude for the opportunity and time. The senior officer also thanked the CDS for his guidance and mentorship extended to him especially as the Commander of the Army to successfully accomplish the official responsibilities.

During the farewell call on, the CDS recalled the dedication and commitments of the senior officer from the very beginning of his officer career till the successful eradication of the ruthless terrorists from the motherland. General Shavendra Silva commended the valour and the act of bravery of this fine infantry officer on the battlefield. He also acknowledged the service of this senior officer extended during the post-war scenario and recent challenging periods of the country. The interest shown in developing the training infrastructure at the Army Training School, Maduru Oya was highly appreciated during the call on. The CDS also commended the interest and efforts taken for the betterment the organisation as the Commandant of the Sri Lanka Army Volunteer Force, Colonel Commandant of the Sri Lanka Army General Service Corps, and Colonel of the Regiment of both the Mechanized Infantry Regiment and Vijayabahu Infantry Regiment.

Prior to the retirement, this outgoing senior officer served as the 52nd Commandant of the Sri Lanka Army Volunteer Force (SLAVF). Major General Deepal Pussella is a battle-hardened infantry officer who was nourished and groomed by the prestigious 1st Battalion of the Vijayabahu Infantry Regiment. He exemplified a charismatic role of leadership for preserving the solemn decorum of the Sri Lanka Army in every phase of his military career.

General Shavendra Silva stated that the time has come to enjoy the life with the loved ones which may have been sacrificed due to the obligatory commitment as a military officer. He also wished the outgoing senior officer for a successful retired life blessed with good health and happiness.

The CDS also acknowledged whilst commending the services rendered by the spouse of the retiring senior officer, Mrs Himali Pussella to the Army Seva Vanitha Unit during her office in Regimental Army Seva Vanitha Branches. Finally, mementoes were exchanged to mark the visit, where the CDS wished the family members of the outgoing senior officer too for a brighter future.